LAUGHING JACKAHH.—Dacito gigcu. 



some instances, such as that with which we shall commence our history, thoy make the 

 greatest part of their diet of insects and crustaceans. In colour they are very variable, 

 some being comparatively dull in tint, possessing no colours but black, brown, and white, 

 while others are decorated with the most brilliant plumage, which nearly equals that of 

 the trogons in gorgcousness of hue, although the colours are not distributed in such large 

 masses, nor are the feathers so exquisitely soft and downy. They arc to be found in 

 nearly all parts of the world, and our own island boasts of one of the handsomest, 

 although one of the smallest, species. 



OuE first example of the Kingfishers is the Laughing Jackass, or Giant Kingfisher, 

 its former title being derived from the strange character of its cry. 



This bird is an inhabitant of Australia, being found chiefly in the south-eastern district 

 of that country, and in New South Wales. In Van Diemen's Land Mr. Gould believes 

 that it does not exist. In no place is it fouud in any great numbers ; for although it is 

 sufficiently common, it is but thinly dispersed over the country. It is rather a large bird, 

 being eighteen inches in total length, and is powerful in proportion, being able to wage 

 successful war against creatures of considerable size. 



